Snorkelling Trips to Cook Island Marine Reserve: Swim with Turtles!
Experience the Magic of Snorkelling at Cook Island Marine Reserve
Snorkelling with turtles at Cook Island Marine Reserve is one of life’s greatest pleasures. This sanctuary zone is renowned for its rich marine life, making it the perfect spot to meet these majestic creatures up close.
Marine Life at Cook Island
Prepare to spot an array of marine species, including:
- Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead Turtles
- Pufferfish, Clownfish, and Rays
- Dolphins (Occasionally)
In summer, keep an eye out for:
- Nudibranchs, Wobbegongs, and Leopard Sharks
Snorkelling Information
- Location: Just 1km off Fingal Head, accessible by boat from the Tweed River Bar. Depths range from 5 to 15 meters—so no touching the bottom!
- Experience Needed: None! First-time snorkellers are welcome, and guides are available to provide in-water assistance. Children of all ages can join if they are confident in the water and supervised by an adult.
- Best Time: Snorkel year-round, weather permitting.
How to Combat Seasickness
We recommend taking Travacalm before boarding—ginger and natural remedies may not be effective.
Conservation Tip: Respect Marine Life
As a protected marine reserve, we encourage responsible snorkelling practices. Avoid touching the marine life, as this helps preserve the ecosystem for future generations.
Weather Considerations
Visibility is typically around 10 meters, but weather conditions can affect your trip. On clear days, expect an exceptional snorkeling experience. Be sure to check with us before booking to confirm conditions.
Pricing and Inclusions
- Price: $119 per person
- Includes: Hot drinks, soup, and a light snack onboard – snorkelling equipment, guides, and transport from Gold Coast Dive Centre.
Booking Tips
If you’re heading to the Gold Coast and planning a snorkeling trip, we recommend booking your experience in advance while keeping your schedule flexible. The weather can be unpredictable, but a little planning ensures you make the most of your trip.
Our Snorkelling Trip Schedule
- We run trips twice daily: 6:30 am and 11:30 am.
- Departs by private bus from Gold Coast Dive Centre, Miami, QLD.
- Boat Launch at the Public Jetty, 1A Minjungbal Dr, Tweed Heads South, NSW.
Trips are weather-dependent and require a minimum number of participants.
Snorkelling Trips to Wave Break Island: Discover Marine Life Near the Gold Coast!
Escape to Wave Break Island for a Perfect Snorkelling Adventure
Wave Break Island offers year-round snorkeling in calm, protected waters, with stunning views of the Gold Coast skyline. It feels miles away from the city’s hustle, yet it’s just a short boat ride from the mainland. A popular destination for day trips, this island is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife spotting, making it a perfect getaway for families, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.
Marine Life at Wave Break Island
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Wave Break Island and experience:
- Friendly bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat
- Colourful tropical and sub-tropical fish species
- Sea eagles and other birdlife soaring above
- A variety of marine creatures in the calm, protected waters
The shallow waters make it a safe snorkeling spot for kids, with plenty of opportunities to see marine life up close.
Location and Accessibility
Wave Break Island is easily accessible by boat and offers a perfect environment for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the sandy beach. No prior snorkeling experience is required, making this an ideal trip for beginners and families. Kids of all ages are welcome, provided they are supervised by adults.
- Accessibility: Boat access from Marine Stadium Jetty or Pelican Beach.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays provide a tranquil experience, while weekends and holidays like Australia Day, Easter, and New Year’s attract more visitors.
Conservation and Respect
Help us protect the beautiful ecosystem at Wave Break Island. Responsible snorkeling is key—please refrain from touching marine life and respect the designated zones to preserve the natural beauty of this marine environment.
Weather Considerations
Wave Break Island is popular among snorkelers, boaties, and kayakers due to its favorable weather conditions. The shallow waters are perfect for children, with a good chance of spotting vibrant fish and other marine creatures. Always check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure the best experience.
Pricing and Inclusions
- Price: $79 per person
- Includes: Snorkelling equipment, guides, and transport from Gold Coast Dive Centre.
Booking Tips
If you’re visiting the Gold Coast and plan to snorkel at Wave Break Island, we highly recommend booking in advance to secure your spot, as trips are weather-dependent and require a minimum number of participants.
Snorkelling Trip Schedule
- Trips run once daily, carefully scheduled based on the tide charts.
- Departure: From Gold Coast Dive Centre, Miami, QLD. Boat launches at Marine Stadium Jetty, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, or Pelican Beach, Waterways Drive, Main Beach, QLD.